| drug name | Ergocalciferol (Vitamin D2) |
| classification | Vitamin, Fat-soluble Vitamin D |
| pharmacokinetics | Vitamin D2 is absorbed in the small intestine, primarily in the presence of dietary fat. It is then converted to its active form, calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3), in the liver and kidneys. The active form is then involved in calcium and phosphorus homeostasis. Vitamin D2 has a slower onset of action and a longer duration of action compared to Vitamin D3. Plasma half-life is variable and can range from a few days to a few weeks depending on the dosage, individual factors, and renal function. |
| suggested dosage | The suggested dosage for vitamin D2 varies depending on individual needs and health conditions. **This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice.** Always consult with a physician or pharmacist for appropriate dosage recommendations for a specific patient. Factors such as age, renal function, dietary intake, and concomitant medications are essential considerations. Typical ranges for supplementation can be from 400 IU to 50,000 IU per day. |
| indications | Vitamin D2 is used to treat and prevent vitamin D deficiency, which can lead to conditions such as rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. It's also used to treat or prevent osteoporosis, and may have a role in preventing certain cancers, autoimmune diseases, and other conditions. The specific indications and appropriate dosages are determined by the healthcare provider based on individual patient assessment. |
| safety in pregnancy | Vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy is generally considered safe when administered as recommended by a healthcare professional. However, exceeding recommended dosages should be avoided. Insufficient vitamin D levels in pregnant women are linked to potential risks for both mother and infant. Consult with your doctor for appropriate recommendations. |
| safety in breastfeeding | Vitamin D2 is generally considered safe during breastfeeding when administered within the recommended dosage range. The safety of higher dosages, however, is not adequately studied, therefore should be discussed with the healthcare professional. |
| side effects | At recommended dosages, vitamin D2 is generally well-tolerated. Potential side effects include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, headache, dizziness, and fatigue. More severe side effects such as kidney stones, high calcium levels (hypercalcemia), and increased risk of calcium deposits in soft tissues (calcinosis) may occur at high dosages or with prolonged use. These adverse effects warrant immediate consultation with a physician. |
| alternatives | |
| contraindications | Vitamin D2 should not be administered to individuals with hypercalcemia or hypercalciuria. Those with renal impairment requiring dialysis, or with a history of kidney stones, should consult with their doctor prior to supplementation. The drug should be used with caution in those with sarcoidosis or other conditions that might increase the risk of hypercalcemia. |
| interactions | Vitamin D2 can interact with certain medications, including calcium supplements, thiazide diuretics, and certain anticonvulsants. The interaction and appropriate management should be discussed with your doctor. |
| warnings and precautions | Dosage should be individualized based on serum vitamin D levels and other medical conditions. Patients with impaired kidney function may require lower dosages. Individuals taking other medications, especially those that affect calcium metabolism, should consult their physician regarding potential interactions. Vitamin D can increase the absorption of other minerals, such as calcium, thus, excessive intake should be avoided. |
| additional information | Vitamin D status should be monitored by measuring serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. This helps determine the optimal dosage and to detect potential side effects, especially in long-term use. |
| patient specific notes | The provided information is for general knowledge and educational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. A healthcare professional should be consulted for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment plans, especially for a patient aged 25 and weighing 70 kg. Consideration of concomitant medications, comorbidities, and lifestyle factors is crucial for individualizing vitamin D supplementation. |
